Ida Odinga, wife of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, celebrated her 74th birthday with an elegant party in Nairobi on Saturday.
The event showcased her grace and the high regard she is held in by family, friends and the political elite. The venue was transformed into a floral paradise, adorned with exquisite arrangements and elegant banners with heartfelt messages. The atmosphere was both enchanting and sophisticated, reflecting the elegance of the celebrant. Ida exuded grace in a striking long green dress with gold accents, and her flawless makeup enhanced her regal presence.
Raila Odinga, the ever-supportive partner, complemented his wife’s outfit with a coordinated green ensemble symbolizing their unity and harmony. The focal point of the beautifully decorated setting was an impressive birthday cake adorned with red flowers. The guest list included the who’s who of Kenya’s political and social circles, including Cabinet Secretaries Hassan Joho and Anne Waiguru, and Governors Gladys Wanga, Johnson Sakaja, Wavinya Ndeti and Abdulswamad Nassir. Raila Odinga shared photos from the celebration on social media accompanied by a heartfelt tribute to his wife. His message reflects her profound impact on his life and praises her strength, resilience and wisdom.
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga also offered her congratulations, affectionately calling Ida “Min Piny” and saying that she deserves the very best. The celebration was not just a family reunion, but a gathering of influential personalities who have worked closely with the Odingas over the years. The event featured speeches, music and dance, and guests enjoyed a mix of contemporary hits and traditional tunes. In his address, Raila Odinga stressed the importance of family and Ida’s central role in his life and career, noting that he rearranged his schedule to be there for the special occasion.
The celebration also served as a platform to highlight Ida’s contributions to society, particularly in the areas of education and women empowerment. Her long-standing commitment to the rights of women and children has earned her numerous awards and widespread admiration. Later in the evening, guests enjoyed a sumptuous dinner with a selection of local and international dishes. The highlight of the event was the cake cutting ceremony, which was met with enthusiastic applause.
